Heda Shelves
21-year of Racking & Shelving Manufacturing
By Rainee | 26 April 2023 | 0 Comments

Structural vs Roll-Formed Pallet Rack-Terms You Should Know

When it comes to selecting the right type of pallet rack for your warehouse, two of the most common options are structural style and roll-formed pallet racks. Both types of pallet racks have their unique advantages and disadvantages, and understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision.

 
Table of Contents
What is the Structural Style Pallet Rack
Advantages of Structural Style Pallet Rack
Disadvantages of the Structural Style Pallet Rack
What is the Roll-Formed Pallet Rack
Advantages of the Roll-Formed Pallet Rack
Disadvantages of the Roll-Formed Pallet Rack
Usage and Placement

Structural vs Roll-Formed Pallet Rack-Terms You Should Know

What is the Structural Style Pallet Rack

Structural style pallet racks are constructed using solid steel components that are welded together to create a strong and rigid structure. This construction method provides greater resistance to impacts and other forms of damage, making structural style pallet racks ideal for high-traffic warehouses with a large volume of goods.

The upright frames of a structural style pallet rack are typically constructed using heavy-duty steel columns, which are connected by diagonal bracing to provide additional support and stability. Horizontal beams are then installed between the upright frames, providing a platform for pallets to be placed on. Wire decking can be added to the horizontal beams to provide additional support and prevent items from falling through the rack.

Advantages of Structural Style Pallet Rack


Heavy Loading

Structural style pallet racks can withstand heavy loads, making them ideal for storing bulky items, such as appliances, automotive parts, and heavy machinery.


Sturdy Structure

Additionally, structural style pallet racks offer superior impact resistance and are less likely to be damaged by forklifts or other equipment. They are also less likely to sway or bow under heavy loads, which can increase safety in the workplace.

Disadvantages of Structural Style Pallet Rack


More Expensive


Installation Requirement

Require more welding and specialized equipment to install and modify. This means they may not be as easily adjustable or customizable as roll-formed pallet racks

Time and Labor
Require more time and labor to install and modify, as they are often bolted together and require more precise measurements

 

What is the Roll-Formed Pallet Rack

Roll-formed pallet racks are made from lighter-gauge steel and are designed for lighter-duty applications. They are ideal for small warehouses or businesses with a low volume of goods.

The term "roll-formed" refers to the manufacturing process used to create the components of the pallet rack system. Roll forming involves feeding a metal strip through a series of rollers to create a specific shape or profile. This process is used to create the upright frames and horizontal beams of the pallet rack system.


Roll-formed pallet racks typically have a teardrop-shaped punching pattern on the upright frames, which allows for quick and easy installation of the horizontal beams. The horizontal beams are then secured to the upright frames using safety clips or other locking mechanisms, which help to ensure the stability and safety of the system.

Advantages of Roll-Formed Pallet Rack


Cost-Effectiveness

They are significantly cheaper than structural style pallet racks and are easier and quicker to install and modify.

More Versatile

Roll-formed pallet racks are also more versatile and can be used for a wider range of applications, including storing boxes, bags, and smaller items. They are also less likely to accumulate dust and debris, making them easier to maintain.

Disadvantages of Roll-Formed Pallet Racks

Durability and Strength

They are more prone to damage and can bend or buckle under heavy loads. This can be dangerous in the workplace and can lead to damaged products or injuries to employees

 

Weight Capacity

The weight capacity of roll-formed pallet racks may be limited compared to structural style pallet racks due to their lighter weight components.

 

Limited Availability

In some cases, roll-formed pallet racks may not be readily available or may have longer lead times for manufacturing and delivery compared to structural style pallet racks, which can impact a business's ability to quickly set up or expand their storage system

 

Usage and Placement

Both structural style and Roll-formed pallet racks can be used in a variety of settings, including manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and retail warehouses. However, their ideal usage and placement will depend on the specific needs and requirements of your business.

For example, if you have a large warehouse with heavy-duty applications, structural style pallet racks may be the best option. On the other hand, if you have a smaller warehouse with lighter-duty applications, Roll-formed pallet racks may be the more cost-effective and versatile option.

When it comes to placement, it's important to consider factors such as aisle width, ceiling height, and access points. Both types of pallet racks can be configured to maximize storage capacity and efficiency, but this will depend on the specific layout and dimensions of your warehouse.

 

Both structural style and Roll-formed pallet racks have their unique advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice will depend on the specific needs and requirements of your business. By understanding these differences and considering factors such as usage and placement, you can select the right type of pallet rack for your warehouse and optimize your storage capacity and efficiency.

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